How to ask for a raise

The subject of money often makes employers and employees uncomfortable. Managers may be limited in what they can do with pay raises for staff, and bringing up the topic without a strategy can lead to an awkward conversation. But, silently hoping to be compensated for your extra effort can lead to resentment and the desire for a new job.

When you have a discussion about compensation can be as important as what you say. The best time to talk with your boss usually is when his or her stress level is low or after you have been recognized for your efforts on a major project. If your organization has made changes or had a reorganization, you also may have a window of opportunity.

It’s best to schedule a meeting so you can have an uninterrupted discussion. Setting the tone of your meeting is important. Employers think in terms of bottom line conversations where it is more productive to demonstrate the value you have added to the company than long hours you have worked. Use achievements to discuss results. Avoid using an emotional approach. “I deserve a raise after working 50-plus hours a week” or “I have been loyal employee who never takes a vacation” are not the most effective approaches.

You can start preparing for a pay-raise discussion by documenting your daily tasks and responsibilities in a journal. The facts you record can help you prove your value to the department and the company.

A journal helps you recognize your efforts as well. It’s easy to stay on cruise control, just doing your job without taking the time to note your accomplishments. When you start taking your skills for granted it’s easy for others to do the same, and that’s when you can be passed over for a promotion or a raise.

When talking about your value to your boss, use stories about your accomplishments, and be prepared to back up your statements with results. This strategy is similar to the accomplishment statements in your resume – results are memorable, and talking about a pay raise is much like reselling your value to your employer.

It’s best to have a number in mind when you talk about a raise, so do some market research to determine the compensation range for those at your level with similar experience. Citing market research can take the emotions out of a conversation, and it shows you have done the preparation necessary to have a professional discussion.

And if you don’t get a raise …

It may not be possible to get a raise with your current role. If that’s the case, ask what you can do to move up to a role with a higher pay scale.

Be professional and listen for alternative perks such as additional training, more vacation time or a scheduled compensation review in three to six months.

If you are grossly underpaid and you feel you made a good case for a raise, you can start looking for a better-paying position. The time you have spent researching and documenting your accomplishments will help you get started.